Space buns are making a massive comeback, capturing the playful and nostalgic essence of early 2000s beauty. From festival grounds to everyday streetwear, this versatile style offers a fun way to express your personal aesthetic while keeping your hair neatly out of the way. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or a messy, undone vibe, there is a variation of this trend to suit every hair texture and length. We have gathered ten of the absolute best looks to inspire your next hair transformation.
1. Elegant Low Twisted Double Buns Updo
Elegant low buns are the perfect coquette-inspired variation of the classic space buns. This look works beautifully on almost any hair length, and you can even style it as a half up look if you want to leave some hair down. It features a chic bronde balayage with soft waves and delicate face-framing tendrils that soften your features.
To achieve this romantic hairstyle, twist two low sections of hair back and secure them at the nape of your neck. Use a light-hold hairspray to keep the soft waves intact and prevent flyaways throughout the day. This simple technique keeps the overall look looking effortless yet polished enough for a special event.
2. Braided Space Buns With Wispy Face Framing Strands
Channel the ultimate Y2K vibe with this gorgeous look featuring two Dutch braids feeding into high space buns. If you have curly hair, this style is a fantastic way to showcase your natural texture while keeping it contained and chic. The contrast between the tight braids and the textured buns creates an eye-catching effect.
To get the look, check out this quick tutorial. First, part your hair down the center into two equal sections. Next, braid each side starting from the front hairline up to the crown, secure the remaining hair into high ponytails, twist them into buns, and leave a few wispy strands free at the front. This style is much more structured than the low twisted buns from our first style.
- Section your hair evenly down the middle.
- Braid from the front hairline to the crown.
- Wrap the ends into high, fluffy buns.
3. Braided Space Buns With Iridescent Hair Tinsel
Elevate your festival look with these dazzling platinum blonde buns threaded with iridescent hair tinsel. Among all the festival hair ideas, this one stands out for its holographic shimmer and playful vibe. The glittering strands catch the light with every single move, making it absolute perfection for concert season or outdoor events.
Incorporating tinsel is surprisingly easy once you get the hang of tying the metallic strands to individual hair roots. Similar to the colorful Y2K looks we will explore later, this style adds instant sparkle to any concert outfit. Just make sure to use a heat protectant if you plan to style the tinsel with hot tools.
4. Jet Black Space Buns With Blunt Baby Bangs
This soft grunge look pairs deep jet black hair with a sharp, blunt bang and high buns. It is a striking contrast that frames the face beautifully and works wonderfully on short to medium hair length. The dark, dramatic tone gives this classic style a modern gothic twist that is perfect for expressing your edgy and unique side.
Keep your fringe perfectly straight using a flat iron and apply a tiny dab of styling wax for definition. If you love this bold aesthetic, you will also appreciate the vibrant neon colors in our tenth look. A light mist of shine spray will keep the jet black color looking glossy and rich all day long.
5. High Space Buns With Velvet Scrunchies And Green Tones
Embrace your inner alt-girl with deep dark green hair styled into high space buns secured by plush velvet scrunchies. This moody hairstyle utilizes a clean middle part and a sleek finish to create a polished yet rebellious vibe that stands out in any crowd, whether you are heading to a concert, school, or just hanging out with friends.
To get that ultra-sleek finish, follow these quick steps to keep every single strand in place. This is a great option if you want a cleaner look compared to the messy Y2K style we will look at in a moment. Be sure to use a fine-tooth comb to smooth out any bumps along the scalp before wrapping your hair, ensuring that high-shine finish.
- Apply a generous amount of smoothing pomade to your roots.
- Tie the hair into two high pig tails using thin elastics first.
- Wrap the hair into buns, pin them, and finish with your favorite velvet scrunchies.
6. Sleek Braided Space Buns With Colorful Scrunchies
Combine sleekness and retro charm with high braided top knots wrapped in vibrant, colorful scrunchies. This Y2K-inspired option works well for anyone searching for a creative hairstyle that stays secure all day long. It is the perfect blend of sporty and sweet, offering a fun way to accessorize your everyday outfits with a pop of bright color.
After parting your hair down the center, pull the hair into two high ponytails and braid each tail tightly. Wrap the braids into buns and secure them with retro scrunchies for a fun twist, similar to the braided tinsel look in our third idea. Use a firm-hold gel to tame any flyaways along your part line.
7. Messy High Space Buns With Wispy Face Framing
If you prefer a more relaxed aesthetic, this messy updo is the ultimate effortless Y2K look. It features face-framing strands and a sleek back, showing that easy styling can still look incredibly chic on any hair length. The slightly undone buns give it a casual, day-to-day feel that requires very little effort to pull off successfully.
Do not worry about making these buns perfect; the key is to pull them loose gently after securing them. It offers a softer, more casual alternative to the sleek green buns we previously discussed. Spray a bit of dry shampoo at the roots to add instant volume and texture before you begin styling your hair.
8. Textured Locs Styled Into High Space Buns
Show off your gorgeous honey brown locs with this high updo featuring a clean grid parting. This styling tutorial is a two-minute solution for keeping your hair out of your face while maintaining a trendy, youthful look. The beautiful golden tone of the honey brown locs adds incredible warmth and dimension to the entire hairstyle.
Keep your locs healthy and styled by using simple techniques that minimize tension on your scalp. This structured look is just as bold as the baby-bang style we highlighted earlier. Make sure to use thick, elastic-free hair ties that can hold the weight of your locs without pulling too hard at the roots.
- Moisturize your scalp with a lightweight oil before styling.
- Gather your locs into two high bunches and wrap them loosely to avoid tension.
- Secure with hair-friendly ties that will not snag your locs.
9. Pastel Pink Space Buns With Face Framing Braids
Go full pastel dream with bubblegum pink hair styled into high buns and delicate face-framing braids. This is one of the most popular festival ideas for adding a soft, feminine touch to a bold hair color. The soft pink shade brings a whimsical, fairy-like quality to this classic 1990s and early 2000s look that everyone loves.
If you have curly hair, you can leave the ends of your buns curly for extra volume and texture. This look pairs wonderfully with the sparkly tinsel ideas we discussed earlier for a complete party vibe. Finish the look by wrapping the base of the braids with small clear elastics to keep them secured.
10. Neon Green And Purple Space Buns With Blunt Bangs
For the ultimate indie sleaze statement, try this vivid neon green and purple color melt paired with a blunt bang. These vibrant space buns offer a high-contrast style that demands attention and shows off your bold personality. It is the perfect choice for anyone who loves alternative fashion trends and making a statement.
Use a color-safe shampoo to keep your vivid shades bright and prevent bleeding during washes. This style shares the edgy energy of the jet black baby bang look, but adds a colorful punch. Keep a mini flat iron handy to touch up your bangs and keep them looking perfectly sharp throughout the day or night.
11. Half Up Space Buns With Hot Pink Highlights
Step back into the early 2000s with a style that combines a nostalgic silhouette with a daring splash of color. This Y2K look features bright hot pink highlights peeking through wavy texture, creating a contrast against a dark base. Choosing a half up look allows you to showcase both the playful space buns and the flowing waves beneath. It is perfect for trying two tone hair without committing to full neon.
To achieve this look, section the top half of your hair into equal parts and secure them into high ponytails before twisting into loose buns. Use a texture spray on the remaining waves to enhance volume. If you do not have permanent pink highlights, temporary hair chalk or clip-in extensions work beautifully. Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep everything secure while maintaining movement.
12. Sleek High Space Buns On Espresso Hair
For a polished take on the trend, these sleek high space buns on espresso hair offer a clean, sophisticated vibe. This hairstyle is all about precision, featuring a sharp center part and ultra-smooth buns positioned high on the crown. It is a highly versatile option that looks incredibly chic for both casual daytime wear and dressed-up evening events. Best of all, it is surprisingly easy to create.
Start by applying a smoothing gel to damp hair, then use a fine-tooth comb to create a clean middle part. Secure each section into a tight, high ponytail, ensuring there are no bumps along the scalp. Twist the ponytails tightly and wrap them around their bases, securing with hairpins. Spray a generous amount of high-shine gloss spray to give the espresso locks a mirror-like finish that catches the light.
13. Messy Half Up Space Buns With Wispy Bangs
Embrace your inner soft-grunge icon with these messy half up space buns paired with a delicate, wispy bang. This effortless look relies on textured, slightly disheveled styling that feels laid-back yet intentional. The combination of a choppy bob and jet black hair gives this look a cool, moody edge. If you are browsing for fresh hair ideas, this casual, lived-in aesthetic is the ultimate solution.
- Texturizing sea salt spray for instant grit
- Bobby pins matching your hair color
- A lightweight styling wax to define the ends of your bangs
Unlike the sleek finish of the espresso buns in our previous idea, this style thrives on imperfection. Gently pull a few pieces of hair loose around your ears and temples to frame your face. Work a tiny amount of styling wax through your fringe to keep it looking piecey rather than heavy. Secure the buns loosely, allowing a few ends to stick out for that signature effortless, undone feel.
14. Icy Silver Half Up Space Buns With Blunt Bangs
If you are looking to make a bold statement, this icy silver half up style with a sharp blunt fringe is guaranteed to turn heads. The cool-toned metallic hue pairs perfectly with a straight bob, creating a futuristic Y2K aesthetic. This look works wonders on almost any hair length, adding structure to shorter cuts. Following a quick styling tutorial makes it easy to master the balance of this look.
Use a flat iron on your blunt bangs and the lower section of your hair to ensure everything looks sleek and straight. Apply a heat protectant before styling to keep the silver shade vibrant and prevent dry ends. Twist the top sections into tight, neat buns and pin them securely right above the ears. Finish with a drop of hair oil distributed through the ends to add a healthy, reflective sheen.
15. Half Up Space Buns On Long Copper Curls
Celebrate natural texture with this warm, bohemian-inspired style featuring copper hair styled into a gorgeous half up look. The rich copper shade highlights the dimension of the long curly hair, making the buns look full and bouncy. This aesthetic embraces a relaxed, indie sleaze vibe that feels organic. If you have natural curls, this curly hair option is a wonderful way to keep hair out of your face.
To keep your curls looking defined and frizz-free, apply a curl-defining cream to damp hair before diffusing. Gather the top section of your hair, keeping the tension loose to preserve the natural curl shape within the buns. Secure with spiral hair ties to prevent creasing and hair breakage. Gently pull at the buns to expand their size, letting the copper ringlets cascade freely down your shoulders.
16. Messy Lime Green Space Buns With Face Framing Pieces
Unleash your creative side with vibrant lime green space buns that offer an unapologetic nod to the nineties. This messy bun style uses face framing layers to soften the bold, neon fashion color, creating a trendy frame. It is an easy way to channel a festival-ready look that feels energetic and full of personality. This style is all about having fun with your hair, showing off your unique style.
- Neon-safe color shampoo to keep the green vibrant
- Dry shampoo for instant root volume and texture
- A medium-hold hairspray to lock the messy shape in place
To get that perfectly messy texture, spray your roots with dry shampoo before styling to add grip and volume. Twist your hair loosely into buns, securing them with hairpins rather than tight elastics to keep them looking soft. Pull out a few lime green strands around your face to emphasize the framing layers. Contrast this with the sleekness of the espresso buns mentioned earlier to see the difference.
17. Two Tone Space Buns With Face Framing Money Pieces
Contrast is key with this striking two tone look featuring silver and black hair styled into high buns. The highlight of this hairstyle is the bright silver money pieces that frame the face, contrasting beautifully against the dark base. It is a classic Y2K revival style that brings maximum visual impact with minimal styling effort. The sharp division of colors makes the double buns look even more distinct.
When parting your hair, make sure to separate the face-framing money pieces first so they do not get caught in the buns. Secure the rest of your hair into two high ponytails, ensuring the color split is clean and visible from the front. Twist the silver and black sections into neat buns, letting the contrasting tones play off one another. Use a flat iron on the money pieces to keep them straight and smooth.
18. Pastel Pink Half Up Space Buns With Waves
If you loved the bold pink look from our first styling option, this pastel variation offers a softer, more romantic alternative. The ideas behind this style is to blend sweet, feminine color with the playful shape of double buns. Having a shadow root adds depth and makes maintenance a breeze. It is a fantastic option if you want to try a colorful look that feels soft and works with a quick tutorial.
Before styling, use a curling wand to create loose, beachy waves throughout your hair, leaving the ends slightly straight. When you form the buns, leave the ends of the hair out of the elastic to blend seamlessly into the waves below. Simply twist the hair around your finger before wrapping it into a bun to keep the waves organized. Spray with a texturizing mist to give the waves that effortless quality.
19. Braided Space Buns With Intricate Dutch Plaits
Upgrade your styling routine by incorporating intricate Dutch braids into your double buns for a detailed, secure finish. This look works beautifully on ash blonde balayage, as the braids highlight the different tones in the highlighted hair. No matter your hair length, adding braids provides extra security, making this style perfect for active days. It is a beautiful way to wear space buns cleanly.
- A tail comb for creating a perfect, clean part
- Clear elastic bands for securing the braid ends
- Smoothing pomade to tame flyaways along the braids
Divide your hair down the center and start Dutch braiding from the nape of your neck upward to the crown. Once you reach the top, secure the braids with clear elastics before wrapping the remaining hair into buns. Unlike the loose waves in the copper curl style, this braided updo keeps all hair tucked away securely. Spritz a firm-hold hairspray over the finished braids to keep them looking neat all day.
20. Braided Double Space Buns With Middle Part
Combine structure and style with these braided double buns featuring a sleek middle part and brunette highlights. This Y2K-inspired design uses two tight buns that are braided before being wrapped, creating a textured, sculptural look. This style is excellent for keeping thick hair under control while looking incredibly chic. If you prefer a look without a bang, this clean style highlights your features.
Start by parting your hair down the middle using a comb for a clean, sharp line. Pull each side into a high ponytail, braid the length of the ponytail, and secure the end with a small elastic. Wrap the braid around the base to form the bun, pinning it flat to your head with bobby pins. This technique offers a wonderful alternative to the soft, messy green buns, providing a polished and durable look.
21. Braided Space Buns With Beaded Face Framing Twists
This nostalgic Y2K look takes the classic space buns to the next level by combining them with tight, braided hair and face-framing accents. The style features sleek high buns perched perfectly on top of the head, while delicate honey highlights catch the light beautifully. To complete the retro aesthetic, thin twists frame the face, adorned with playful hair charms that add a touch of personality. It is the ultimate statement hairstyle for anyone looking to stand out.
To achieve this look, start with a detailed styling mindset by parting your hair down the middle. Use these quick steps to get it right:
- Apply a strong-hold gel to create a smooth, bump-free base.
- Secure your two high ponytails and braid each section tightly.
- Wrap them into buns and add beads to your front tendrils for that authentic Y2K finish.
22. Braided Space Buns With Classic Black Bows
Embracing the ultra-feminine coquette aesthetic, this style pairs structured braided buns with delicate, oversized black ribbons. The sleek hairstyle starts with a clean, sharp middle part that keeps the overall look polished and neat. By wrapping the braids into tight coils, you create a sophisticated silhouette that contrasts beautifully with the soft, flowing ribbon tails. It is a charming choice that proves this trend can be incredibly chic and romantic.
Begin by prepping your hair with a smoothing serum to tame flyaways before dividing it into two equal sections. Once you have formed the braided buns, secure them with bobby pins and tie a satin ribbon around the base of each. Unlike the beaded Y2K twists in the first look, this style keeps the face clear to focus all attention on the elegant bows.
23. Sectioned Space Buns With Colorful Elastic Accents
Add a burst of vibrant color to your routine with this playful, sectioned Y2K look. Perfect as a creative protective styling option, this look uses bright, colorful elastics to segment the hair leading up to the space buns. The sleek hair is divided into precise geometric sections, creating a fun, graphic pattern across the scalp. It is an eye-catching way to show off your personality while keeping your locks secure.
Section your hair from front to back, securing each mini ponytail with a colorful elastic band before merging them into the main buns. Try this approach to secure your hair length:
- Choose high-contrast elastic bands to make the sections pop.
- Keep the tension even to protect your hairline.
- Wrap the ends into tight, compact knots at the crown.
24. Braided Base Space Buns For Ginger Hair
This striking look showcases the beautiful warmth of copper hair styled into a dynamic, braided masterpiece. The braided hairstyle features intricate dutch braids that travel up the back of the head, culminating in two fiery high buns. This unique structure adds incredible texture and detail to the back of the updo, ensuring your hair looks stunning from every single angle.
Flip your head upside down to braid the back sections upward toward the crown of your head. Once you reach the top, secure the hair into ponytails and wrap them into fluffy, textured buns. This technique is easier to manage than the sectioned elastics we saw in the previous look, making it a great alternative for active days.
25. Pastel Braided Space Buns With Glitter Part
Get ready for festival season with this whimsical, magical blend of soft colors and sparkling details. This look combines pastel hair extensions with a shimmering glitter part that instantly draws the eye. The braided buns are woven with soft pink and lavender hues, while delicate face framing braids soften the overall look. It is a dreamlike style that feels both playful and incredibly trendy.
Apply a hair gel mixed with chunky biodegradable cosmetic glitter directly along your middle part using a clean makeup brush. Feed the colorful extensions into your braids to add instant volume and length, wrapping them securely at the crown. If you loved the braided elements in the ginger hair look, this colorful version adds a festive, glowing upgrade.
26. Half Up Space Buns With Natural Brown Waves
For a more laid-back, effortless vibe, this style offers a gorgeous half up variation that lets your length shine. Out of all the space bun ideas, this one is the most relaxed, combining two playful top knots with cascading, messy waves. The casual middle part and long layered hair create a relaxed, everyday aesthetic that is both youthful and chic. It is the perfect balance between styling and natural texture.
Section off the top half of your hair and divide it into two equal ponytails, leaving the bottom layers free. Twist the top sections into loose, undone knots, letting a few strands fall naturally to maintain that effortless vibe. This is a much more relaxed, easy alternative compared to the structured, sleek braided buns in the second look.
27. Half Up Space Buns On Deep Burgundy Waves
Inject some rich, dramatic color into your wardrobe with this stunning indie-sleaze inspired look. The style features a vibrant deep burgundy shade styled into a messy half up space buns arrangement. With plenty of wavy texture and thin, messy face-framing tendrils, this hairstyle embraces an edgy, undone aesthetic. The rich red tones add depth and dimension to the tumbling layers beneath the buns.
Use a texturizing spray to enhance your waves and add volume before sectioning the top portion of your hair. Follow these tips to lock in this moody style, which offers a dark contrast to the natural brown waves we just looked at:
- Pull out thin, face-framing tendrils around the ears.
- Gently tug at the buns to loosen them and create an undone texture.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain movement.
28. Half Up Space Buns With Soft Loose Waves
This ultra-romantic look showcases soft loose waves in a warm, rich chocolate brown shade. Featuring a delicate half up space buns design, the hairstyle focuses on creating a soft, touchable texture that feels incredibly feminine. Gentle face framing curls hug the jawline, adding a sweet, polished touch to the overall silhouette. This style works beautifully on natural curly hair too, making it incredibly versatile.
Use a wide-barrel curling iron to create loose, bouncy waves throughout your long layered hair. Secure the two mini buns on top of your head, making sure they sit symmetrically to frame your face beautifully. Unlike the edgy burgundy waves, this coquette-style look prioritizes clean, soft curls for a highly polished, classic finish.
29. Messy Deep Red Space Buns With Blunt Baby Bangs
Make a bold statement with this edgy soft grunge look that pairs messy buns with sharp, blunt baby bangs. The vibrant red hair instantly stands out, while the textured, slightly disheveled buns add a cool, effortless attitude. This goth aesthetic style is perfect for showing off your features, especially if you have a shorter hair length or love framing your face with a bold bang.
Embrace the messy texture by backcombing your hair slightly before wrapping it into your two high buns. Smooth out your short front sections with a flat iron to create a sharp contrast against the tousled buns behind them. If you enjoyed the half-up burgundy style, this full updo option offers an even bolder, grungier way to wear red.
Level Up Your Hair Game with Double Buns
Now that you have seen some of the most creative ways to wear this style, it is time to grab your comb and hair ties to try them out yourself. Make sure to pin your favorite looks to your Pinterest boards so you always have fresh inspiration ready for your next styling session. Whether you go for sleek, braided, or colorful buns, you are bound to turn heads with this fun and trendy look.
